fix swim platform mounting holes

[mduffy]

When trying to turn my boat around on the trailer my step ladder caught a chainlink fence then when I went forward my teak swim plaform pulled off brackets and all. It was attached with lag screws and left 4 holes approx 1/2" diameter a little bigger than the screws in the fiberglass, that aren't through the hull. Platform was undamaged. Any suggestions for fixing and remounting the platform?

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: fix swim platform mounting holes

The right way to do it is to drill the holes larger than they are and fill with epoxy.Then drill holes in the epoxy a little smaller than the screws and then reattach the platform with the screws.The easy way is to change to larger screws and just screw them back into the stripped holes.Charlie

 

[salty87]

Re: fix swim platform mounting holes

can you get a backing plate behind the transom to secure the bolts to? that would be ideal after doing what charlie says.

 

[jeremyp111]

Re: fix swim platform mounting holes

Using a backing plate with bolts, nuts and washers is the preferred way to go, but if you can't then go for the epoxy to fill the holes. Use duck tape to hold in the epoxy while it hardens. Drill the holes slightly smaller as suggested and then reuse the lag screws. Either way, just be sure to use some sealant to prevent water from getting into the transom. 3m 101 is ideal. You could also use Marine-tex putty to fill the holes and then drill. It hardens like steel and holds very well.<br /><br />good luck.